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Patients' recollections of their posttraumatic coma
1Parkland Memorial Hospital, Dallas, TX 75235.
Summary
Patients in traumatic coma may have limited awareness. Some recall imprisonment, sensory, or death-like experiences, influenced by coma duration, impacting nursing care strategies.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can result in coma, a state of profound unconsciousness.
- Understanding patient experiences during coma is crucial for effective care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore retrospective patient recollections of posttraumatic coma.
- To identify themes and factors influencing awareness during coma.
Main Methods:
- Descriptive study involving semi-structured interviews with 15 patients who experienced traumatic coma.
- Qualitative analysis of patient responses regarding coma experiences.
Main Results:
- Seven patients had no coma recollections; eight reported themes of imprisonment, sensory, or death-like experiences.
- Recollections were influenced by coma duration, not Glasgow Coma Scale score or injury type.
- Four patients recalled helpful and unhelpful actions during their coma.
Conclusions:
- Patients in traumatic coma possess a limited environmental awareness.
- Nursing management should integrate awareness of these potential experiences in acute and chronic care settings.